In fingerprint analysis, the most frequent fingerprint pattern in the general population listed in order of decreasing frequency is:

• A Arch > Loop > Whorl
• B Whorl > Loop > Arch
• C Loop > Arch > Whorl
• D Loop > Whorl > Arch ✓

Explanation

In the general population, fingerprint pattern frequency is: Loop (~65%) > Whorl (~30%) > Arch (~5%). Loops (radial and ulnar) are by far the most common. Whorls are second most common. Arches (plain and tented) are the rarest pattern. This distribution applies globally and is used in forensic classification. The Henry system classifies based on loops (radial and ulnar), whorls, and arches, while the FBI uses the same basic classification.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.